What are the Educational Benefits of NatureMapping?

A national study of 40 schools using a framework called the "Environment as Integrating Context for Learning" (EIC) showed that the following benefits accrued as a result of this hands-on style of learning:

• Better performance on standardized measures of academic achievement in reading, writing, math, science and social studies;
• Reduced discipline and classroom management problems;
• Increased engagement in and enthusiasm for learning; and
• Greater pride and ownership in accomplishments.

Additionally, EIC integrates all the current thinking on educational reform in that it is:

• Interdisciplinary,
• A collaborative approach to learning,
• Student-centered,
• Hands-on, and
• Ensures students are engaged in learning.

The EIC report, "Closing the Achievement Gap: Using the Environment as Integrating Context for Learning", 1998, by Gerald A. Lieberman, Ph.D. and Linda L. Hoody, M.A. is available from Science Wizard, 13648 Jackrabbit Road, Poway, CA 92064, (619) 676-0272, http://www.seer.org.

Go visit the Teacher's Corner at the Washington State NatureMapping home page for useful ideas on how NatureMapping can be used in the classroom!